Travel Guides

Amsterdam Coffeeshops

Amsterdam's coffeeshops are an iconic part of the city, and for
many tourists they constitute a unique and essential element to any
visit to the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, 'coffeeshop' means a place
where cannabis is openly sold and smoked, while 'café'
refers to somewhere that sells coffee, tea and cakes. The
coffeeshops sell controlled amounts of marijuana to adults over 18
years of age. Travellers are warned, however, that the personal
possession of drugs is illegal, if frequently overlooked; cannabis
is not legal in the Netherlands, recreational use is simply
tolerated if it is not socially disruptive. There are a variety of
coffeeshops in the city, from laid-back and mellow to psychedelic
and loud. It is expected of customers to consume not only the
cannabis but also a beverage or snack while at the venue. Most
coffee shops offer several kinds of weed or hash listed on a
'menu', and the staff can give advice on the different strains and
strengths before you place your order. The prices vary according to
the quality and be warned: the local skunk is very strong!

For most of the country a law has now come into effect that
makes it illegal for tourists to be admitted to coffeeshops. Most
cities in the Netherlands enforce this prohibition, but Amsterdam
is fighting the law and has so far managed to continue selling to
foreigners; however, as the laws and social norms are currently in
flux travellers are advised to check up on the situation prior to
travel.